Red Shirt School gets an early Christmas thanks to BHSU

A group Black Hills State University students, faculty, and staff recently visited the Red Shirt School to give the students an early Christmas. More than 200 wrapped gifts, monetary donations, and school supplies were taken to the school as part of the BHSU’s 11th Annual Red Shirt Cultural Holiday Exchange.

More than 200 wrapped gifts, monetary donations, and school supplies were taken to the Red Shirt School as an early Christmas present to over 70 school children as part of Black Hills State University’s 11th Annual Red Shirt Cultural Holiday Exchange.

Coffee and coffee pots for elders in the community, blankets for families, stuffed animals, and clothes for preschool students, along with treats for the Red Shirt students, faculty, staff, and community were also delivered.

According to Jace DeCory, assistant professor of history and American Indian Studies at BHSU, “The Red Shirt students were overwhelmed with our community generosity and their thank you notes to everyone involved shows their heartfelt appreciation.” View their thank you card at the Center for American Indian Studies in Jonas Hall, room 101 on the BHSU campus.

“Special thanks goes out to everyone who contributed to the great cause,” noted DeCory. Those who contributed include: Angel Tree gift donations; BHSU Student Ambassadors, who wrapped gifts; Canyon Hills students, who assisted with the gift wrapping; BHSU Bookstore, who donated boxes of supplies, clothing, and gear; Joe Rainboth, assistant director of the Center for American Indian Studies, who played Santa Claus; Center for the Conservation of Biological Resources, who beautifully decorated holiday sacks; Margaret Garris family, Belle Fourche, who donated crocheted scarves and hats; Spearfish and Rapid City Wal-Mart stores, who donated gift cards to purchase party treats; Micheline Nelson, BHSU Multicultural Committee member, who secured funds to deliver the gifts; Dr. Peggy Buckwalter’s Spanish classes, who donated money for extra gifts; and Dr. Sandra Marker’s classes, who donated school supplies. Dr. Robin Carmody’s Early Childhood students at Bay State College in Boston, Mass., also sent packages of household goods, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and school supplies.

“The BHSU students and staff who made the trip to the Red Shirt School truly enjoyed their day with the students,” said DeCory. Plans are underway for next year’s exchange program. If you would like to learn more contact DeCory at Jace.DeCory@BHSU.edu.

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